Can we talk about making friends as adults? Am I the only one that feels like I’m dating someone at the start of a new friendship? “I had fun. I think they had fun, too. Maybe? Was I too much? Should I call? Too soon?” Maybe no one else does this but I overthink it just a little. Or a lot!

Then there are friendships that happen seamlessly and I don’t remember how or when it began. That’s how it went with Lindsey. We worked out alongside one another at CrossFit for a while (I promise I have friends outside of CrossFit. But the ones I meet there do tend to stick) but we’d never actually met outside of a “tough workout”, “good job”, or “you got this” here or there. I don’t remember when we switched from passing acquaintances to the “let me tell you all my dirty secrets” kind of friends, but one day we went for a run and I realized she was my kind of people- and I have been bugging her ever since.

It’s a good day when you realize the friends you have allow you to be wholly and completely, authentically you. And bless Lindsey for being that friend; making me feel a little less peculiar for all my strange thoughts and habits. The number of conversations that start with, “I know it’s so weird, but…” and end with, “I get it. I absolutely do that, too!” are innumerable.

And now that we are friends our paths cross in all the places and we get to hang out without actually making plans. Isn’t that every parent’s dream? A built in friend wherever you may be: Basketball. Tee-ball. Track Club. Tennis. The Pool. Oh- and CrossFit. Someone to take videos of your kids when you leave your phone in the car, or supply you with baby wipes when your kid ends up with his drink all over his body and you’re fresh out?

But anyways- Mother’s Day, 10th anniversary and her birthday all fell in a 2 week span and Lindsey gave herself the gift of memories. Guess who got to be the lucky photographer capturing them?!?

Maybe it’s because I’m the mom of small kids, but photographing family’s with young kids definitely holds a premiere space in my career. There is so much authenticity in the relationships. Young kids are rarely self-conscious about having their portrait taken and the parents are so focused on their kids that I am able to capture and preserve the silly faces, reassuring hugs, and stolen snuggles.

So many times a mom will leave saying, “Do you think you got anything?” and my answer is always ABSOLUTELY. Because the running, tickling, pouting and rolled eyes are what give a photograph it’s personality. If you don’t feel a little emotional when you look at my portraits, I’m not doing it right!

These guys had me cracking up. They brought a toy Dalmatian that was integral to the success of their portraits. We managed to weave him into the entire session. Occasionally he’s sticking out from behind mom’s shoulder, but he spent most of his time watching from the top of my camera and sailing through the air like a football. Whatever it takes to get these cute smirks, right?

I grew up with brothers and watching brothers together makes me a little sad Sikes doesn’t have a brother. They had the best time playing together and ganging up on me with zombie faces. But they always managed to pull out a charming giggle when it was time for a smile.

I have to give credit where it’s due. Deron was agreeable, energetic, and positive during our entire session. Dad isn’t always on board for family portraits, but it makes such a difference when he is! Kids see their dad getting involved and suddenly this whole picture thing is cool.

These 2 boys love wrestling and rough housing with their dad. He’s clearly their hero- and his energy and encouragement gave the boys permission to have fun with our session, too.

Thank you so much for checking out this super-cute family. I had a great time hanging out and making memories- but I mostly love having all 4 of them as friends!